Free school meals
Primary school
But if you have a low household income, you should apply for free school meals. Applying could help you access additional support for your child. Your child's school may also receive extra funding.
Secondary school
You must apply for free school meals for children in secondary school.
If you receive Universal Credit, your child may be eligible for free school meals in years 7 and 8, regardless of your household earnings.
The Welsh Government has confirmed that this entitlement will be introduced for pupils entering years 7 and 8 from 1 September 2026.
Free school meals under this entitlement will not be available at the start of the 2026 to 2027 school year. We will update this page when more information becomes available. Your child's school will also keep you informed.
Applications are now open
Eligibility
To access free school meals and further support, you must receive one of the following:
Universal Credit
If you or your partner receive Universal Credit, your child's eligibility depends on your combined net earnings.
Combined net earnings of £7,400 a year or less
If your combined net earnings are £7,400 a year or less (£616.67 a month), your child may be eligible for:
- free school meals
- School Essentials Grant
Combined net earnings of more than £7,400 a year
If your combined net earnings are more than £7,400 a year (£616.67 a month), children in years 7 and 8 may still be eligible for:
- free school meals
Other qualifying benefits
Your child may also be eligible for free school meals if you receive:
- Income Support
- income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)
- income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Pension Credit
- Child Tax Credit, provided your annual household income is £16,190 or less before tax and you do not receive Working Tax Credit
- support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
Your child may still be eligible for free school meals if your family has no recourse to public funds (NRPF).
Further support
You may be able to get further support for your child, such as:
Your child's school may also receive additional funding to support eligible pupils.
Apply
Apply Online
If your child is eligible, you can apply for free school meals.
Before you start
We will need:
- your name
- your contact details
- your child's name
- details about your child's school
- National Insurance number (if available)
Apply by post
You can also download and complete the application form below:
Downloads
What happens next
We will notify you to confirm if and when your child is eligible for free school meals.
Contact us
If you have any questions about your application or need help to apply, contact:
You can also contact your school if you have any questions or need help applying.